Setting paving sand involves filling the gaps between paving stones to create a stable and weed-resistant surface. This is done after the pavers have been laid.
The Process of Setting Paving Sand
-
Material Selection: Use the appropriate sand. Coarse, washed river sand or crushed rock is ideal. Premier Pavers & Stone recommends these types. Kiln-dried sand is also a suitable option, offering consistent dryness and minimizing moisture issues. Paving.org details its benefits.
-
Application: Pour the sand onto the paved area. Sweep it thoroughly into the joints between the pavers using a broom. Sakrete and The Home Depot emphasize the importance of careful sweeping.
-
Consolidation: Gently tap the pavers with a broom handle or similar blunt object to settle the sand. This helps to compact the sand and fill the gaps effectively. This step is crucial as mentioned in the provided text snippet: "Pour the sand onto the pavers and sweep it into the joints. Using a broom handle or some other blunt object, tap on the pavers. This will cause the sand to consolidate."
-
Top-Up: Add more sand as needed, ensuring that the sand level is within about 1/8 inch of the top of the pavers. Avoid overfilling, which can lead to an uneven surface.
-
Final Sweep: Perform a final sweep to remove any excess sand from the paver surfaces.
Important Note: While some sources mention laying pavers directly on a sand base, this is generally not recommended for long-term stability. A more robust base, such as a layer of compacted gravel, is usually preferred. Reddit discusses this point. For new installations, polymeric sand is often recommended for enhanced weed control and durability. The DIY Playbook provides more information about polymeric sand installation.
